UN Security Council condemns Libyan violence

United Nations, July 18: The UN Security Council Thursday condemned recent violence in Libya, calling on all sides to engage in political dialogue and refrain from violence which threatens the stability.

Violence, including the fighting around Tripoli International Airport, "follows a deeply concerning prolonged pattern of politically motivated and inter-militia violence, making it even more difficult for the Libyan authorities to govern effectively", Xinhua quoted the security council as saying in a press statement issued here.

In the last few days, fighting among rival militias for control of the airport in Tripoli has left at least 30 people killed, extensive damage to airport facilities and planes, and the suspension of all flights to and from the airport.

"The members of the Security Council stressed that violence and the threat of violence is unacceptable and should not be used to pursue political goals," the statement said, reiterating the need for all sides to engage in political dialogue and refrain from violence and actions that challenge the stability of the state.

The statement came after the Council members heard earlier in the day a briefing from Tarek Mitri, special representative of Secretary-General and head of the UN Support Mission in Libya ( UNSMIL), via video-link from Lebanon on the latest developments in Libya.

IANS